1. What is the tone of the poem?
2. How does the speaker feel about Africa?
3. What are some of the more powerful images for me?
4. How has this poem affected my concept of Africa?Be sure to respond to what your classmates have written.
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In this specific poem, the narrator takes a look back at all that Africa has taught them and has given them. The mood set by the author is very thankful and proud of Africa as if it had been a parent to the narrator. The most powerful image in this poem to me is the line descibing the struggles tied to her heels and how she boasts about them in plain daylight. The line, "even this lassitude bound to my heels, I bear it with pride on my forehead". I now view Africa as a constant journey from one place to another with land as far as one's eye can see, yet a very trying experience that teaches you many life lessons.
The tone of the poem seemed proud, but it was a little melancholy, especially near the end. The speaker shows that he/she loves Africa, although it has caused him/her hardship. As with Matthew, one of the most powerful images to me was "Even this lassitude bound to my heels, I bear it with pride on my forehead." It reminds me of the times we all have when you have to do something really difficult and you complain, but when it's over you realize that you've toughened up and learned a lot, and in the end you're glad you did it. This poem made me realize that many Africans do have pride for their country because of all of the life lessons (like Matthew said)the country provides. Only the people who learn from these life lessons can be successful, and that realization has made me respect the people of Africa immensely.
The tone of this poem is greatful and proud. The author explains all the reasons that Africa has changed her life or made her who she is. I believe that the most powerful image here is described in lines 25-30, in which the author tells of the loss of paradises and the need to protect the natrural beauty of a land that once belonged only to its natives. This poem makes me think of how a person who sees Africa as home, and not just a foreign country, might feel, especially with what has been going on in the world.
In this poem, the author's tone has respect towards Africa and is proud to be apart of it. The speaker conveys a message about his/her love for everything African. The image that stood out most vividly in my mind is when the author is describing the Savannahs of Africa. "...Savannahs gold in the nonday sun...". By reading this poem I have gained a new insight on Africa. I was able to gather more information on Africa's geography and culture.
I agree with Matthew about the mood set by the author being "thankful and proud of Africa".
The tone of this poem is weary, yet proud. The speaker feels very indebted towards Africa, despite the hardships that it has brought upon her/him.
The speaker has great pride in his/her African heritage, and is willing to go to great lengths to defend his/her individuality, saying "Your suffering for lost paradises,/All that, I protect with an unforgiving hand/As far as the clear horizons"
This poem has very powerful imagery.
For me, the most compelling image is the speaker's description of the weight and hardships he/she is willing to face to maintain his/her identity and individuality.
This poem has made me view Africa as more of an enigma. How could I understand the pride the speaker feels or the hardships he/she has faced without ever visiting, let
alone living or growing up in, Africa? That being said, I can clearly see from the poem that Africa has qualities that inspire loyalty and pride among her inhabitants. Although Africa may have many hardships, the poem shows that Africa gives back much more than it takes away.
I think that the tone of this poem is sad, but also prideful and rebelling. It seems sad because she talks about how exhaustion is "bound to her heals" and how she has to protect the greatness of Africa from something. Yet more than sadness there is pride. She talks about her love for her country and all the good things about it “Music, dances, all night stories around a fire… Pigments of my ancestors”. It gives the tone of malcontent when she talks about how she will keep walking even through all these hardships. She declares “All that, I protect with an unforgiving hand” giving the tone that she will work and rebel al all costs to maintain Africa.
The speaker feels pride and concern for Africa. She talks about how great Africa is “Lakes, forests, misted lagoons. All that you have given me”. She also talks about some of their traditions “Music dances, all night stories around a fire” then mentions later that these traditions will forever be written in her very blood. I think the speaker feels that she must protect these traditions, for if they loose those they loose part of Africa itself. I think that when she says she will protect Africa, she doesn’t just mean the land itself but the very spirit and traditions that make up their culture.
For me the most powerful images are when she talks about how she will walk. I think is a metaphor for how she will fight to show how Africa is great even if it is harsh at times. Even just reading I can imagine her fighting in an unforgiving land. It just strikes me the way she makes it clear that she will never give up and declares that Africa is a beautiful thing that she will always remember and will always fight for.
This poem actually has changed my concept of Africa. I normally think about Africa in a modern but this poem really made me see it a deeper cultural aspect. When thinking about Africa now I see more than open fields with animals I see I think of a rich culture with a lot of traditions, customs, and pride
Wow, I think I wrote a bit much. Oh well, I had a lot to say about this poem. Looking at other peoples responses I hope I didn’t think about this poem to much or romanticize it. I suppose this is just the way that it struck me
The tone of this poem is proud; the speaker writes about the attributes of Africa and how they have made her strong. The speaker has a lot of respect towards Africa because it has been a major part of her life. Lines 10-15 creates the most powerful image of the poem to me. It shows that life may not always be easy in Africa, yet the speaker is still proud of her homeland. This poem has allowed me to view Africa as a place that isn't just about what people tend to think of when Africa is mentioned. It allowed me to see a deeper beauty in the "savannahs gold in the noonday sun" and the "clear horizons." In a time like the one that we live in that focuses so much on architecture, people often forget about the world's natural beauty, as it is seen in Africa.
Anoma Kanie, the author of this poem was very appreciative and proud (yes everyone's said it, but it's true) of her upbringing. She felt privileged for all of her experiences and the rich culture and land around her. Although she seems tired and worn, she was full of gratitude and made the reader want to value everything little thing around him or her, even in the worst of situations. The line, "Obsession of a hostile world Your suffering for lost paradises" painted the picture in my mind of the people's troubles ingrained in the land as well as the damage done to the land by the people. I also liked that while she was highly praising Africa, she still said that her race was no better or worse than any other. An example of good imagery from this poem is the line, "Savannahs gold in the noonday sun", as Shashank pointed out. This poem has reminded me of what a vivid culture and stunning landscape Africa has and the impact on its people. I also liked Ray's view on the poem and what he took from it. Everyone so far has used good examples and I agree with what's been said.
I think that the tone of this poem, given by the author, is proudness and pride. The author is very thankful to Africa like Matthew said and thinks high about it. To me the most powerful image is the line where the author says "I bear it with pride on my forehead", which shows a strong support to Africa and also supports the tone. Also the line where the author says "Praising my race which is no better or worse than any other" creates a strong image of an unbiased person respecting all other religions but proud of his own. Moreover, this poem has given me a new insight on how great Africa actually is and it is home to many people. I agree with Sonya, who said that this shows that Africa is not just a foreign land but a home to people.
The tone of the poem is serious and appreciative. The author describes the experiences Africa has given in the past and present as something so meaningful and precious. This personal feeling becomes three dimensional with the images that the poem presents as a journey. The perspective of the journey Matthew had discussed earlier also pulled me and gave me the ability to feel that personal and appreciative understanding of the continent. One powerful image was created by the lines “All that you have etched in my skin, pigments of my ancestors, indelible in my blood.” From this line, I could understand the closeness and the significance in the bond the speaker kept with those she descended from. She was proud of where she came from. “Praising my race which is no better or worse than any other,” was also stated in the poem. This line made me feel a connection to the author as being a humble human. She was proud of the race she was apart of, but she was also accepting of other cultures. My concept of Africa has been put in a completely new perspective and I hold a deeper interest, like Cat, in the area. I can see it almost as a personal journal or scrapbook of scattered memories, traditions, and lands. Each page unfolds through the steps of a journey like Matthew talked about earlier.
The poem has a constant message of hope and pride throughout. The poet has obviously been through hardships, for instance referring to his lassitude as “bound to my heels”. However, Kanié reminds the reader that Africa has been there for her, and has stood strong through the years. The speaker has deep respect for Africa, and hopes its glory may remain intact. Some of the most powerful images are of the weight of the pain Kanié suffered through. she uses very vivid imagery to describe the pain he had to deal with all through her life. It makes it easy for me to see the pain and suffering, It creates more of an image for me of the pride the African’s possess of their home country. It shows that Africa is more than a country, it is the basis of a tradition long before our time, full of pride and strength. It is interesting to see how many peoples' ideas of Africa have been altered by the honesty of this African Woman who shared the true pride of the culture of Africa.
1. the tone is calm, remberance, and then a sudden outburst of pridenear the middle.
2.Africa to the poet is his/her life. near the end he talks about protecting it, it means he/she would fight for Africa so that it may stay the same as it is to him/her. This way of thinking means he/she has so much pride in Africa, he/she is almost too modest, "...which is no better/ Or worse than any other." (line 18-19). 3. My most powerful image is "All that, I protect Africa with an unforgiving hand."
4.I now view Africa as not only what Matt Jones said, but also a land of freedom, not just governmental freedom, but freedom of the land. The wide open spaces, the different kinds of animals, the forests, the coasts, all represent a freedom that nothing can take away. It can't be taken away, because it is so hard to take away, take away all that above, and Africa would be nonexistent. So while we live in big cities, and crowded areas, in Africa, their are endless possibilities.
The tone seems to optimistic, yet optismism doesn't dominate the poem's tone. Other tones play a part as well. "Proud" seems to be a popular tone on this blog, and it definetly is. The narrator proudly describes Africa's physical features and characteristics it gave to its people throughout the whole poem. Although Africans might have "lassitude" bound to their heels, they are heavely proud of their nation, continent, and home.
The speaker is proud of African to an immense extent. Throughout the peom, he brags and describes Africa's "Lakes, forests, misted laggons." The speaker is confident that Africa is a strong, lively, and worthwhile nation. The narrator writes, "Praising my race which is no better Or worse than any other." This brought a powerful image to my head, because I had stereotypical views of Africans believing in racism and discrimination. The multiple physical features the narrator describes pops pictures in my head of beautiful scenary and luxurious sights. When coming to my personal thoughts of Africa, I agree with the mojority of other student's views. I believe that Africans viewed Africa as a home and not only a continent. Also, while all humans have wars, Africa has its sense of peacefulness and placidity.
Throughout the course of this poem, the author uses a tone of high esteem. He shows a natural connection between himself and Africa as it is from where he was brought up. As Sonya said, he is greatful and proud of Africa, and such is reflected greatly in the poem. The author almost feels as Africa is his mother. He is very thankful for the life it has offerred him and the home it has given him. Africa stayed with him throughout the hardships, and therefore eastablished a place in the author's heart.
As for the most powerful image to me, the one of the Savannah struck me most, as Shashank said. The description itself brings a whole new element of imagery and gives the reader insight into this beautiful place.
My concept of Africa has become one of great beauty that holds many secrets and morales. As Matthew said, about the trying experience that teaches life lessons, I agree that it is an environment where life lessons are all around you.
The tone of this poem appeared to be proud. The speaker was proud of his country and everything it had given him. The speaker sounds as though he is eternally thankful to Africa, even though it had given him hardships and struggles along with the benefits. Some of the more powerful images for me comes from the lines "All that have etched in my skin, pigments of my ancestor, indelible in my blood." These lines show the how close the bond is between the narrator and those who came before her. She is proud of who her ancestors were and where she came from. My concept of Africa was really put in a different mind set. I'm kind of ashamed to say this, but I never thought anyone whould be happy living in some parts of Africa. But if there really are lots of people like the narrator who think like she does, then that's awesome. No Cat, you did't write too much. Ryan, she said paragraph form. Nice job yall, and seriously, everyone's comments were totally righteous!
Like everybody else has mentioned, the tone seems to be proud and respectful, but there seems to be some parts that are sad and regretful. The speaker obviously feels that Africa is extremely special, but is in danger from outsiders who will exploit Africa's beauty. One image that made me think was "...And I go forward, praising my race which is no better or worse than any other." It seems that although Africa and her people have been abused by other people, they (or at least the author) do not feel that way about their captors.
I now view Africa as something that inspires great loyalty and culture, yet has a brutal history that cannot be overlooked.
The tone of this poem is a proud and loving one. This tone is used because the author clearly views Africa as the place that raised her, the place that toughened her, and the place that made her who she is today. Among the countless other examples of imagery in this poem, the part that stood out the most to me was her continual boasts of what is essentially the tough love of the African people, culture, and the country itself. In my eyes, Africa is more than just scorching sun, endless plains, and primitive tribes- it is a home, lifestyle, and culture for all who exist there.
The tone of the poem was a very melodious and happy tone. The author is treating Africa like a wonderful person and boasting how good it is. The author is also writing in a proud tone like Saira said. The author was very happy and proud to be a part of the wonderful country, Africa. The speaker loves Africa and think that it is the best place in the world. "With a step that is like no other. Hip broken in the weight of time" That is a very powerful image to me beacuse it shows how hard of a life it is to live in Africa. It reveals that the life there weighs heavy on them. The people that live in africa are very tough and strong people. The quote that Matthew posted was also another very powerful quote to me. I will always think of Africa as a place that I respect and would like to be from in a way. I have a lot more respect for it now that I can see how hard of a life people have that live there. I also noticed how unselfish and nice that the people are who live in Africa. This reading has been a great insight into their culture.
The anonymous post is me...Sorry
The tone of this poem is one of pride and of a willingness to defend and protect Africa no matter what. The speaker is grateful towards Africa and all it has provided for him/her as well as being very proud to have it as part of their heritage. As many others have said, I find the most powerful image to be that found in the lines "Even this lassitude bound to my heels, I bear it with pride on my forehead" because it shows that the author is proud of his/her homeland despite hardships that he/she has been through as well as regarding these challenges as accomplishments rather than trials. This poem made me realize how wrong it was and is to try to assimilate the people of Africa because their culture is so important to them and it always should be respected. I agree with Saira in that this poem has made me greatly respect the people of Africa.
Like everyone else has already said, the tone seems to be very proud and grateful. The author talks about how Africa has changed her life and everything that this country means to her. Although the author is proud of Africa, she still have respect for those that come from other places which is stated in line 18, "praising my race which is no better or worse than any other". The imagery in this poem is very strong. To me, one of the most vivid images was in the line, "savannahs gold in the noonday sun". This poem has changed my concept of Africa. I agree with dennae about how this poem makes you see the culture and and beautiful landscapes that Africa has. I can also see how much pride people have in this country and why they would feel so strongly about where they come from.
The authors given tone in this poem is one full of pride and full of respect for Africa. The speaker is honored to be from africa and to have such a rich backround that has been around a long time. The speaker feels Africa has seen its troubles but has always regained it self in those times. The most powerful images i got were in liek 12-18, where the author describes africa and its troubles as if describing her body after a long journey. The broken him and worn feet, health waining but regaining to travel more. Those i felt were very powerful. I don't think this poem has very much affected my concept of Africa beacuse my dad worked there all as i grew up so i always heard stories of its beauty and from the time i was 3 to the until no i have always wanted to travel through it. So i don't think it really changed my outlook on Africa besides adding to my desire to visit. I agree with Matthew Jones I think there is much to be learned from traveling to a place so differnt from one we know, one rich with its own standout cultures.
The speaker of the poem shows a great pride in his continent through the tone of his writing, because he sees that it has made him what he is today, for better or for worse. He praises his country as he praises his uniqueness, for he feels it is his home that seperates him from all of the other humans on the planet. I found his acknowledgement of conflict diamonds at the end ("Your mines, inexpicable treasures, obesssion of a hostile world") created a sense of sorrow towards his home, but it adds a greater sense of pride in his quest to defend his home. I agree with Mr. Jenkins on how his thoughts that parts of Africa really are the horrible warzones you see in the movies were changed by this poem and that its citizens are presented to show a great pride in their heritage. It also raised a bit of pride inside for my home country, and I think it would have that affect on anyone in the same way.
I hope that doesn't sound weird, I feel kind of funky posting this on the world wide webs
I too found the tone in this particular poem to be appreciative and hopeful. The author is clearly thankful for all the music, dances, and stories Africa has given her. Not only has her country given her so much, but has also been there for the African people during hard times. When Anoma Kanié writes about having struggles bound to her heels, one can assume that the author has had her share of suffering yet still has faith that her country is able to support her through bad times. Kanié believes in Africa and like Sonya said, it has made her who she is today. The most powerful image painted for me was also while Kanié talked about losing the paradise she had just described and how she will always do her best to protect it. Africa’s rich culture has proven to me to be unique and I am not surprised that people like Léopold Sédar Senghor led movements like the Negritude movement to keep that unique culture alive.
The tone of this poem seems to be very proud and appreciative. The speaker shows a love for Africa that makes Africa seem like a mother to her. She sends the message that Africa has shaped who she is and changed her life. As Shashank said, I think the most powerful imagery used in the poem was when she was talking about the beauty of the Savannah. It draws a picture in my mind about the beauty of Africa when the speaker says "...Savannah's gold in the noonday sun..." This poem has given me a new understanding for Africa. It is not just a desert scattered with small primitive villages. It is a paradise to some that has the ability to make people proud to have come from Africa.
I agree with almost everyone about the tone of the poem being very proud and especially Saira's description of it seeming very melancholy towards the end. I also think it is very reminiscent of the author's childhood which makes me think Anoma Kanie might still be living in her vibrant memories. The speaker has deep roots in Africa, and is in love with her continent and most of the things that it contains. Lines 22-25 give me better insight into the author's mind while she is writing it. Kanie's realization of the world's views of Africa seem to make her more determined to help others see her land the way she does. I am very inspired by her, because it is so hard to convey your thoughts and feelings to others; to make them understand your passions. She helps the reader connect with a place so dear to her, which is quite an accomplishment, especially in a 29 line poem! The powerful images to me are most definitely in line 23-4, when she mentions the mines full of treasures that are an obsession of the world. I have now watched Blood Diamond three times, and am still emotionally connected to the reality it portrays. This line makes me see the Africans working to get diamonds, these precious stones that are over-priced and deemed more worthy than some human lives. This poem has helped me to make connections between my life and Africa, I hope that I have gained some understanding and insight into Anoma Kanie's Africa.
I think that the tone of this book is very prideful but that the narrator is still troubled by something. The narrator seems to be very happy with Africa even though he has gone through hardship there. Matthew brings up a good point about the intensity of the quote "Even this lassitude bound to my heels, I bear it with pride on my forehead." Reading this quote reminds me of all the times that I have gone through something difficult, but have been very happy with my accomplishment in the long run. I agree with Sonya because it is hard to imagine how people in Africa are feeling, and this poem gives us a slight glimpse of their view on there country.
The main tone of the poem is (of course) one of pride, and even nostalgia as Kanié describes the beautiful landscape that she has grown up in. There are also, as many before me have said, stuggles and hardships mentioned. It sounds like even though Africa has presented obstacles for Kanié, overcoming them has made her stronger, like Madames Sonya and Sheila mentioned. I like the word Ray used: "weary." Kanié does sound weary, but nonetheless very grateful for the wonderful and unique life that Africa has given her. The images that really struck me were "Your mines, inexplicable treasures/Obsession of a hostile world/Your suffering for lost paradises/All that, I protect with an unforgiving hand" These lines show how perhaps Kanié feels that Africa is vulnerable, with the reference (as Clay so astutely brought up) to conflict diamonds and lost paradises, and an almost overbearing will to do whatever it takes to protect her home. I really had a similar change in my view of Africa to Raymond and matthew jones. This poem really personified Africa for me, the way Kanié describes it as this generous, sometimes burdensome, but very vulnerable being that inspired her to feel so proud and protective.
I think the tone of this poem is proud, but with a hint of sadness too. He/She? talks about all the beauties Africa has, like the savannahs gold, or the music, dances, and all night stories around the fire. But also, less happy things like, the beasts that men call wicked, and the lassitude bound to my heels, which mixes a bit of weariness into the otherwise proud poem.
The speaker definitely loves Africa, he brings up many different memories and mentions his bloodline. He calls it "indelible", meaning it cannot be removed, so he is saying that he will always be African, and is apparently quite proud of that fact. In the end, he says he will protect Africa forever, which shows loyalty.
I think a powerful image is when he talks about his walk, which can be viewed as his life. He talks about how his step is unique(his way of life), with his hips broken with times weight, and finally feet large with the journey(i think he's talking about the loads of experience he's acquired while on the earth). It shows how Africa has taught him how to live his own way.
This poem makes me think of a beautiful, but dangerous place. All of the treasures and the clear horizons paints the beautiful. But with it comes the wicked beasts and a hostile world. Also, it makes me realize how the people of Africa really love their country, and will do anything for it.
I really like what kevin said, "In my eyes, Africa is more than just scorching sun, endless plains, and primitive tribes- it is a home, lifestyle, and culture for all who exist there."
Seems like thats all there is to africa when you just look at it, but if you actually go in depth, and learn a few things, you find out that Africa is filled with pride, culture, and the inevitable hardship.
Although the tone of this poem does express a strong feeling of pride and gratefulness like Matthew, Saira, and many others have mentioned, the tone of the poem is much more than simply that. It also expresses a feeling of a bond between the country and it's people and the tone is also one of devotion to his homeland because of all it has given them.
It is not hard to know that the speaker holds great love and emotion for Africa. As previously stated, he recognizes that Africa is part of him. The author seems to embrace Africa wholeheartedly as himself, his culture, his physical characteristics, his history, and his life. (I'm assuming that the author is a guy.) His emotion is what really speaks out to me because you can tell that even though his homeland is now suffering, his heart yearns to protect and restore it to what it once was.
The most powerful image to me is the poem as a whole and how it describes the transition from the once peaceful Africa filled with "Lakes, forests, misted lagoons", to the present day land suffering from the greed and "obsession of a hostile world." One can feel the emotion emanating from the author as he reflects back on what the land has given him, and yet how humankind has repaid it in such horrible manner. From the images he paints from the poems such as "Music, dances, all night stories around a fire." It is not hard to tell that the author still keeps the memory of the beautiful and tranquil Africa alive. The lines "I bear it with pride on my forehead, My health is no more to be lost, and I go forward, Praising my race which is no better or worse than any other." These stanzas are also full of the heartfelt feelings or pride that the author holds inside, and one cannot help but share the same thoughts as he does upon reading it. All in all, it is not merely the small, separate phrases and sections of the poems that strike the hearts of the readers. Instead, it is the whole poem pieced together that brings out such a powerful explosion of the author's raw emotions.
After reading this poem, I no longer view Africa as a foreign country that I only read in stories and books. Rather, the emotion, loyalty, love, and devotion was what drew me closer to the hearts of the Africans and how their hearts break for the suffering their homeland. Nevertheless, the pride and thankfulness of the heritage Africa has provided for them speaks louder still. Like Kevin said, Africa is far from simply a vast plain or dry savannas, but it is filled with so much more life and depth. I now see Africa not only as a rich and cultured country, but also as a homeland that people hold close to their hearts.
1. What is the tone of the poem?
2. How does the speaker feel about Africa?
3. What are some of the more powerful images for me?
4. How has this poem affected my concept of Africa?Be sure to respond to what your classmates have written.
As many have said it previously, the tone of this poem is appreciative, and proud. Anoma Kaniè begins her poem in a very affable tone, but the tone increasingly becomes stronger, and more dismal. She appears extremely loyal to Africa, her home, particularly when she says "Even this lassitude bound to my heels, I bear it with pride on my forehead, My health is no more to be lost, And I go forward." This shows that no matter how weary or defeated she may feel, she perseveres and will not betray Africa with even a thought in her mind. I agree with Drew about the most powerful image in this poem. When she describes the golden terrain of Savannah, I instantly pictured a place much like a paradise. This poem has personally affected my concept of Africa by beautifully describing the essence of the land. It is not just a land mass south east of the United States, but it is a home to many loyal people with vibrant cultures very different from my own. Also, as a side note: Cat, I really enjoyed your response. I agree with Josh, you definitely didn't write too much. I have always been a fan of poetry and this poem was indeed very touching.
The tone of this poem shows a man who feels tired and burdened, but also proud and defiant, almost daring you to tell him he is wrong. He knows, not thinks, but knows, that these feelings of weariness are only an ongoing gift of strength he receives from his country. He is proud of his heritage and would do anything to protect Africa, his homeland. ("Even this lassitude bound to my heels, I bear it with pride on my forehead"..."All that, I protect with an unforgiving hand"..."So that your heaven-given task may be safe forever.") One of the most powerful images for me is "Your suffering for lost paradises". For me, this is what seems to be a simple phrase that actually describes all that Africa went through as a war-torn nation. It was known as a kind of paradise, and so many different kingdoms and empires tried to control it; so much so that Africa lost so many of the things that made it a peaceful paradise in the first place, amidst the suffering of so many wars. For me this poem simply reiterates the fact that Africa contains a deep and rich history that is hard to understand as an outsider who is not familiar with the culture. I really enjoyed reading Ray's response and I must agree that the author conveys such powerful and strong feelings of emotion, such as pride, loyalty, defiance, weariness, and protectiveness that I'm at a loss of ability to truly comprehend and analyze the magnitude of life and culture that could exist in Africa. Where once I could have looked at Africa as just another continent, I realize now that there is so much to the lives of the people who live there of which I know nothing about. I can’t honestly say that I feel so strongly for America as the author does for Africa, and America is simply a country, whereas Africa is an entire continent.
wow that was really long eric
As the people before me have mentioned, the author’s tone throughout the poem is filled with pride and love for her native Africa. The first few lines such as “…music, dances, all night stories around a fire…” contain the author’s deepest and best memories, but afterwords, starting around line ten, the poem takes on a melancholy tone. The melancholy and weary voice of the author is expressed through lines like “…lassitude bound to my heels…”, but despite all the obstacles that one can encounter in Africa, the author continues to deeply love her homeland. I really liked when the author mentiond that her race is no better or worse than any others because it shows that her pride for her own race and heritage does not stop her from accepting other cultures and traditions. I also really liked the phrase “Savannahs gold in the noonday sun” because it describes a gorgeous scene that I can clearly imagine. This poem has changed my view of Africa because, like Jenna mentioned earlier, I feel that I can relate to it and make connections between Kanie’s life and mine. Also, I now feel that Africa is something closer to my heart that I should accept and value, versus previously I never really understood or knew much about African culture.
I would have to agree with Sonya that the tone of this poem is both greatful and proud. The author also seemed to be very monotone and didn't show much expression. The author is thanking and exaplining how great Africa has been to him. When he refers to Africa, I beleive that he is refering to the people and the leaders or whoever may have been in power because most of what he has mentioned was because of them. For example, he thanks Africa for his pigment and blood; He got his pigment and blood from his ancestors which is from the people rather than the country. The poem made me realize that I should be more thankful for my country because it has provided me with a lot of my survival tools.
The tone of the poem is definitely about being proud and thankful, the speaker is proud of where she comes from and seems to be very grateful for everything she has been given and is a part of her. Kanie reminds the reader that Africa has always been there and given so much to her. I agree with what Drew said in regards to how Kanie seems to view Africa as if it were her mother, it is much more than just her homeland in her eyes. Some of the more powerful images are line 25 when it says “You suffering for lost paradises” because it is a reminder of all the war, slavery, and struggles Africa has gone to and has lost much of its beauty and peace over the course of time. Another powerful image was the lines where it describes what Africa looks like “..Savannah's gold in the noonday sun..." because it allows me to draw a mental image of it and how much beauty she saw it as having. I really agree with what Ray said about how the image of her walking on represents that she is not going to let anything stop her and change her mind because Africa to her is beautiful and perfect no matter what. I agree with what Sonya said about how this shows that Africa is not just a foreign land but a much loved home to some people and it should be respected and admired. I never really thought Africa was more than a lot of desert and a few poor and tattered villages, but this poem has definitely changed my mind for the best.
The narrator is looking back on all the experiences of his life, which calls up both feelings of fondness, and of sorrow. As with any reflective poem the tone, set by these chiaroscuro thoughts, is somber, and somehow lighthearted. The most powerful images were that of the tattoos that cross his skin, the words
"Pigments of my ancestors
indelible in my blood"
truly speaks how he feels about what his tattoos meant to him when his got them, and what they still mean to him now.
Africa, as described by this poem, is more of an analogy, or an allegory. Africa seems to be more of a way of life, a type of culture, society. Both relaxed and hard working, fair, yet inexorably difficult.
The tone of this poem is one of dignity and honor. The speaker makes obvious that she has a deep love and affection for Africa. One of the most powerful images for me was "and I go forward praising my race which is no better and no worse then any other." This excerpt gives me the image of a proud African who is loving and understanding of all races. After reading the poem, I now see all of the beautiful things Africa has to offer, and I realize the pride that Africa instills in its people.
The tone of the poem that was set appeared to be pride related, but instead of the word melancholy, which saira butt used, it seems to me that Anoma Kanie thought about it for a long time and when the poem was written, it was just written with less feeling than it could have had. The way the speaker portrays Africa makes it look as though he/she felt as if Africa played a major role in developing who he/she is today. There were some negatives in the poem, but I believe that he/she was grateful for those things anyway because they were a part of the lifestyle and culture of these people. The most powerful images, for me, were in the lines five through ten when the author speaks of ancestors, etched skin, etc. As Josh Jenkins said, a lot of it had to do with the authors ties to their people and their ancestors, but also to himself/herself and comparing who they were and what they went through to everyone else. Also, the line "All that you have etched in my skin" spoke to me very strongly because it reminds me of the Holocaust and how my people had numbers etched into their skin by the Germans and how it leaves a permanent mark that you'll never forget. This showed me that people in Africa really do enjoy their lives and love their country, like Eric said, and ot be honest, I wondered how people in Africa occupied themselves, or other things like that when many of them dont have the modern technology that is so readily available for us as Americans. Things in Africa are definately behind, but the people that live there love it all the same and, sometimes, don't know what they are missing out on in the rest of the world. If their patriotism is so strong though, then right there is something i didn't know, and that has contributed to me realizing i need to learn more about other places than America and to be open minded to what goes on in those places.
The overall theme of this poem is one of adoration, of praise, and of love. The author's tone demonstrates this attitude thoroughly. The author is sure to mention "rough spots" in her poem, with her mentions of "lassitude" and a "hip broken under the weight of time," but the tone is rather like a child describing her relationship with her parents. Even though they have faced many trials and tribulations, many tests of courage and strength, the overall bond with one another is still one of love and mutual respect; this is the attitude that I perceived while reading this poem. The speaker feels about Africa very strongly, and that is shown by her vivid descriptions and constant praise of her origins. However, underneath the surface there is a slight hint of despair, of pleading, for those who are "wicked" to stop corrupting and destroying her ancestral home and the place that she loves. Albeit, this is mentioned only once or twice, lightly, and it is by no means the bulk of the poem's message at all. Some of the images that were painted throughout this poem that particularly stuck out to me were the ones that were most different to our own culture and society, in a strangely alien, but beautiful, way. Her descriptions of "savannahs, gold in the noonday sun," and "music, dances, night stories around a fire," both were possibly the most powerful images for me, as I think they paint two amazingly succinct summaries of Africa, both from differing perspectives. For one, the savannahs line describes the raw untainted natural beauty of Africa, one of its unique aspects, while starkly contrasting but still blending smoothly into the music and dances line, that which speaks to us about the culture of many Africans, at one with nature, but still forward and connected to the world. Although quite powerful and moving, I do not think that this poem has dramatically changed my view of Africa; this might be due to the fact that I already possessed substantial knowledge of Africa's environment, both natural and cultural, prior to feasting my eyes on these twenty-nine lines of literary delight. In response to my peers and co-World Literature-ites, I must say that I found the writings of one Mr. Chabrecke to be most striking. I wholly fancied and concurred with his description and subsequent differentiation that Africa was not simply a place, but also a culture, a lifestyle and a home. I believe that this might summarize many points made in this poem, "All That You Have Given Me, Africa," and to you, Mr. Chabrecke, I take off my hat, as well as to the delightfully wily craftsmen--or in this case, women--who wrote and translated this magnificent, splendid work of art, for which I am eternally thankful.
-- PK12 (THIRD PER. WORLD LIT.)
by Taurian H-S. 3rd p.
The tone of the story is proud and appreciative. By the author’s use of words, they wanted us, being the readers to know about how wonderful and giving in a sense Africa really was. The author states that “, I bear my pride on my forehead,” which proves the tone to be true. The author also states to Africa “…I protect with an unforgiving hand,” which states the authors gratitude for Africa’s “generosity”. The stanza that begins with “, Savannahs gold in the noonday sun,” paints a picture in my head of some wonderful radiant grassland far in Africa where grazing animals roam wild. I agree with Kayla when she says that the poem put Africa into a new perspective for her. For me the poem brought together my thoughts. I believe Africa is a rich nation whether many believe it or not. A prime is example of this is the movie blood diamond, and how many of the “Inexplicable treasures”, diamonds, put on the market are smuggled in and are fought over. Slaves may not have originally began coming out of Africa, but the way the Europeans enslaved Africans is an example of “, Your suffering for lost paradises,” along with the controversy over diamonds.
The tone of this poem seemed proud to me. The speaker is native to Africa and feels lucky to be able have lived a beautiful life in Africa. The most powerful images to me were in lines 3-4 when the speaker mentions music, dancing, and night time stories around a fire because they make me think of how here where I live we do things similar when we go camping, and when I read this an image of people dancing to music comes to me. After reading this poem, I learned more of Africa's geography and culture.
After reading some of my classmates responses I can see many of us have similar opinions towards this poem.
I think that the tone of this poem prideful, sad, and anger. There is a vast amount of pride in this poem felt towards Africa. She loves her country and it can be seen in the first four lines of the poem when she says " all that you have given me, Africa/... Music, dances, all might stories around a fire." Her pride for her country can also be seen when she talks about her ancestor's blood that no runs in her veins. She is also saddened by the westernization of Africa. This can be seen when she writes, "Your mines, inexplicable treasures... your suffering for lost paradise." She also seems angered by the exploitation of Africa in general and it can be seen when she says, "All that, I protect with an unforgiving hand." Over all the speaker feel proud to be an African with its rich culture and is upset to watch the illtreatment of Africa. The most powerful image to me is the description of Africa "All that you have given me, Africa. LAkes forests, misted lagoon/" "Savannahs gold in the noonday sun/." I can picture Africa with these details, it appears to be exotic with everlasting beauty. After reading this poem it made me eager to visit Africa and experience its beauty. I also agree with Saira on the point that it made me respect the people of Africa more for all the hardships they have faced.
I agree with everyone that the tone is very proud. The tone also reflects weariness, yet gladness, as if at the end of a long journey. The speaker loves her country, and is devoted to it despite the hardships it has given her. It is clear that although she has had difficult times, she is glad to be African, and she is very proud. One of the more powerful images for me was, "Savannahs gold in the noonday sun / Your beasts that men call wicked, / Your mines, inexplicable treasures." I think that this is powerful for me because I can feel the speaker's love for the majestic beauty of her country. You can really see the golden grass swaying in the bright sun. What makes it powerful is the combination of the effective imagery and the implication of the speaker's feelings and love for it. Another very powerful passage to me was, "Makes me walk / With a step that is like no other / Hip broken under the weight of time, / Feet large with journeys." The powerful feeling of this part comes from the idea that she is carrying with her when she walks not only her own hardships, but those of her people over many years. Although she carries this incredible weight, she is proud. This poem gives me insight as to how Africans would feel about the many hardships their country has suffered. I know that Africa has had many troubles, but I tend to give it the typical, "Oh, thats terrible, I feel so sorry for them," type of response that many people will give to a foreign country in hard times. What I don't think about usually is the impact this has on the African people, and how this makes them even more devoted to their country. No matter what hardships may come, they are African and proud, like the speaker in this poem.
I agree with everyone who said that this poem has a proud but melancholy tone. She is proud that she is a person of her beloved homeland, Africa, but she experiences melancholy because she is about to leave it behind. I don't think I noticed anyone else who said this, but she says, "My health is no more to be lost," and this could be her way of saying that she is about to die and leave her beloved home.
She is grateful to the country that has given her life and the elements that are needed for life. She proudly speaks of the "savannahs gold in the noonday sun," the animals in Africa, and the mines full of "inexplicable treasures." She is also very proud of Africa; she states, "I bear it[lassitude] with pride on my forehead."
There is a lot of powerful imagery in this 29 line poem. For example, to describe her heritage, she says, ". . . All that you have etched in my skin/ Pigments of my ancestors/ Indelible in my blood . . ." She is saying how proud she is to have African blood flow through her vains and have the skin of the shade of the skin of her ancestors. Also, she describes her fatigue and tiredness of this world through these words: ". . . Makes me walk/ With a step that is like no other/ Hip broken under the weight of time,/ Feet large with journeys . . ." but she is proud to suffer for Africa: "Even this lassitude bound to my heels,/ I bear it with pride on my forehead . . ."
I have always thought of Africa as a country like any other developing country. After reading this poem, I can now (somewhat) correctly imagine the many different physical features and the hardships of the residents of Africa, but most of all, I can now see the pride the Africans have in their lovely country, Africa.
This poem delivers a very bold message from a proud native. All aspects of the narrorators life described in the poem derived from her life in the land she illustrates so vibrantly. The narrorator tells of harsh and tiresome times yet embraces those experiences as privileges and enjoys having them as his/her own. When the speaker says, "All that you have given me Africa makes me walk" tells me about the loyalty she has for her home and her family.
In the peomm All That You Have Given Me, Africa the tone is very greatful and a sense of pride towards one's home. The author throughout the poem conveys a sense of patrism she has received of her orgin. The speaker feels very proud to be African. Throughout the text she expresses numerous times how all the parts of the continent makes her who she is. An example of this is in line 5 she mentions, " all that you have etched in my skin, Pigments of my ancestors." This shows not only her home makes her who she is, but it also made who her ancestors were. A powerful image that I imagined in my mind was line 12 through line 15. These lines state, " All that you have left to me, Even this lassitude bound to my heels, I bear it with pride on my forehead." In my mind a see a women walking barefoot with a look of fatigue etched on her face but yet a sense of pride by the twinkle of her eyes. This poem I believe is an example of how diversity can help others learn about one another. What I mean by this is that at times we tend to just judge people without not really getting to know one another. We tend to forget or even ask others about where they come from and about their culture.
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